Red Sox Prepare for AL Wild Card Series Amid Injuries and High Stakes

BOSTON, MA — As the rest of the Boston Red Sox prepared to fly to New York on Sunday night, injured players Roman Anthony and Marcelo Mayer shared heartfelt hugs and goodbyes before heading to Fort Myers, Florida, for rehabilitation.

Manager Alex Cora emphasized the importance of having injured players close to medical staff for effective recovery. “It’s a lot easier,” Cora stated, highlighting the logistics of handling players with specific health needs.

Anthony, who has not played since September 3, expressed his frustration. “I wish I was going on every trip before the playoffs. But I’m not,” he said. “Our best chance to kind of move this thing along is to be with the staff in Fort Myers.”

He remains hopeful for a return, stating, “I want to play in Game 1 on Tuesday. Unfortunately, I won’t be able to.” Anthony plans to support his teammates from afar.

Alex Bregman and Romy Gonzalez were the only regulars missing from the Red Sox lineup for Game 162. Jarren Duran and Trevor Story returned for playing time after having the previous day off. “It’s good for him,” Cora remarked about Bregman’s situation.

As the Red Sox prepare for the American League Wild Card Series against the New York Yankees, Garrett Crochet is set to start Game 1 on Tuesday, with Brayan Bello likely starting Game 2.

Cora confirmed the team plans to carry two catchers into the playoffs. Additionally, significant attention is on the performance of the bullpen, which has shown improvement this season.

In their final regular-season game on Sunday, the Red Sox defeated the Detroit Tigers 4-3, marking their 89th win of the season. This victory successfully secured their playoff position, setting the stage for a highly anticipated matchup against the Yankees.

Game 1 of the Wild Card Series is scheduled for 6:08 p.m. Tuesday at Yankee Stadium. “I would’ve been juiced regardless of who we are playing,” Crochet said, looking forward to the rivalry. Last season, the Red Sox defeated the Yankees in the postseason, adding pressure to both teams heading into this series.

Shifting focus to the players, Ceddanne Rafaela became part of history as the Red Sox had four players with 20 or more stolen bases for the first time since 1912. “It’s what people want, right?” Rafaela expressed excitement about facing the Yankees. “There are no secrets. We’ll go there and do our best.”

With the postseason ahead, manager Alex Cora stressed the team’s determination to perform well and suggested they have a solid chance for success, stating, “We’re going to go out there, play hard, and see where it takes us.”